Japan | Ryokan Kurashiki and Takachiho Ryokan Shinsen

Japan | Ryokan Kurashiki and Takachiho Ryokan Shinsen

Author: Sarah Groen June 18, 2025 Duration: 35:16

Today, we're pulling back the curtain on one of the most enchanting ways to experience Japan - staying at a ryokan. If you've ever dreamed of sleeping on tatami mats, slipping into a steaming onsen, or savoring a multi-course kaiseki dinner crafted with local, seasonal ingredients - a ryokan stay is the ultimate expression of Japanese hospitality and tradition.

To help us explore this beautiful corner of Japanese culture, I'm joined by two very special guests: Ms. Ritsuko Nakamura, the okamisan, or head of Ryokan Kurashiki, and Ms. Kumi Sato, the okamisan of Takachiho Ryokan Shinsen.

In Japan, the okami-san holds a deeply respected role, preserving centuries-old customs and caring for guests with a level of warmth and grace that words alone can't fully capture. It's rare to hear directly from these remarkable women, so while they may have been a little nervous, they were truly excited to share with you. I hope you'll lean in and savor this unique chance to hear about Japan's ryokan tradition.

We talk about what makes a ryokan stay so transformative, from the seasonal beauty outside your window to the artful simplicity within. If you're planning a trip to Japan, or simply curious about the Japanese art of slowing down, this episode is for you.

Let's step inside.

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Sarah Groen hosts Luxury Travel Insider, a podcast that moves beyond glossy brochures to explore the intricate world of high-end journeys through the people who craft them. Each episode is a conversation with a pivotal figure, from a veteran like Ashford Castle's Robert Bowe, with over three decades dedicated to guest experience, to conservation leaders at remote safari lodges and the proprietors of legendary hotels. These discussions reveal the unseen effort, deep cultural knowledge, and thoughtful philosophy that define true luxury on the road. Rather than just listing destinations, the podcast uncovers the stories behind impeccable service, sustainable practices, and those perfectly curated moments that transform a simple trip into a lasting memory. Tuning in feels like gaining access to a private club where the talk is always about the art of travel itself. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of what it takes to create exceptional experiences, the balance between opulence and authenticity, and the evolving definition of luxury in different corners of the globe. It’s for those who see travel as a deeper pursuit, interested in the craftsmanship behind the curtain as much as the destination on the itinerary.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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